Setting directions for the design scene

LAST week, design took centre stage in Singapore at the World Architecture Festival (WAF), aka the architecture world’s equivalent of the Oscars.

Over three days, some of the biggest design names were in town for a series of talks, judging and exhibitions, with plenty of networking taking place. The 16-year-old WAF is an annual, international showcase of architectural innovation and design excellence, with the highlight being the world’s largest live-judged architectural competition.

This year’s theme was ‘Catalyst’, focusing on driving positive change through design. Nearly 500 entries were shortlisted, and in Friday’s issue of BT Lifestyle, we take a closer look at some of the winners, and suss out the trends and ideas they represent.

Meanwhile, we visit the home of photographer Tan Ngiap Heng, which was built 60 years ago by pioneer architect William Lim. Tan recently commissioned a group of artists to create artworks inspired by the house, which will go on public display at the location. Here’s a chance to view the works and tour the house before it’s put up for sale.

And in Dining, go local at Focal, which takes a look at familiar Singaporean flavours from an international cooking perspective.

Read about this and more in Friday’s BT.